Aurora Liveaboard overview

By
Melina Biedermann
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Melina is a dedicated traveler and seasoned divemaster based in the heart of South East Asia. With a flair for discovering hidden treasures, her love for...
Rebecca Strauss
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...

Exceptional diving opportunities await in the gems of Indonesia—Raja Ampat, North Sulawesi, and Komodo. Raja Ampat sits at the epicenter of the Coral Triangle, offering truly remarkable biodiversity. With over 1,000 fish species and 500 types of corals and the healthiest reefs on the planet, it’s No. 1 on many divers’ bucket lists for a reason.

The 132-foot (42 m) long Aurora, a phinisi vessel crafted in Sulawesi, effortlessly combines modern-day creature comforts with the appeal of traditional charm, and the onboard crew on board provides exceptional and attentive service.

Keep reading as we dive into our review of the Aurora. 

About this review

To help you find a that will fit your needs, we’ve tested, researched, and reviewed the best ones available today.
We test both in the water, diving in various conditions - and in our lab - so we can give you accurate answers on quality, performance, and the overall value.

Read about our test of s

Things we like:

  • Flexible itinerary based on weather
  • Outstanding hospitality and service
  • Exploration of secret, less touristy locations
  • Spacious and well-organized dive deck
  • Abundance of marine life, including mantas

Things we don't like:

  • Limited marine life at some dive sites
  • Communication problems with instructors
  • Cash-only payments onboard

Diving on the Aurora liveaboard

Diving on the Aurora is an incredible experience. This custom-built vessel is your gateway to exploring the pristine waters and vibrant coral reefs of Raja Ampat, North Sulawesi, and Komodo, with boarding in Sorong.

Guests will explore vertical walls teeming with life, healthy coral gardens, coral-encrusted wrecks, drift dives, and intricate caverns. Custom-designed tenders ensure easy access for diving.

For those with a passion for muck diving, Raja Ampat is often hailed as the world’s best location. Here, you can spot some of the most peculiar and uniquely adapted critters, many of which are masters of camouflage.

With professional dive guides, you’ll enjoy 11- or 12-night itineraries, with three to four dives per day. The crew-to-guest ratio is nearly 1:1. They speak multiple languages, including English, French, Indonesian, Mandarin, and Spanish. The crew includes marine biologists, underwater photographers, and video operators who provide expert guidance.

Aurora not only offers nitrox, but also rebreather and sidemount support. Dive gear is available for rent. Guests can also enjoy shore excursions, kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and more.

National Park fees are included, but there are some required extras: gratuities ($15 per day) and port fees ($200-250 per trip).

Highlights:

  • Crew-to-guest ratio of nearly 1:1
  • Knowledgeable and multilingual dive guides
  • Muck diving, walls, coral gardens, wrecks
  • Memorable shore excursions

Onboard the Aurora

The Aurora, originally built in 2007 and renovated in 2010, offers guests a range of convenient amenities and comfortable accommodations, including easy airport and hotel transfers.

The boat accommodates up to 18 guests in nine double or twin cabins, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and daily housekeeping services. Some cabins even offer the luxury of king-size beds.

Whether you choose a double, twin, or family cabin, you’ll enjoy stunning sea views from your quarters. Additionally, warm-water showers, beach towels, cabin towels, and complimentary toiletries are provided to enhance comfort.

Guests can stay connected, with complimentary onboard WiFi, and make use of the satellite phone available for limited downloads on the onboard computer. For entertainment, the Aurora offers audio and video options and convenient charging stations for devices. If you’re in the mood for reading, there’s a library onboard.

Inside, you’ll find an air-conditioned salon and bar, and out on the sun deck, there’s a stunning view and cushioned loungers for relaxation.

Photographers and videographers will appreciate the camera room, spacious enough to accommodate even the most intricate equipment.

Finally, the well-equipped dive deck features outside showers, a camera station with a separate rinse tank, DIN adaptors, rinse hoses, and rinse tanks for other gear.

Highlights:

  • Airport and hotel transfers
  • Free onboard WiFi and entertainment options
  • Spacious camera room
  • Well-equipped dive deck

Dining on the Aurora

Dining on the Aurora offers a diverse culinary experience to cater to every guest’s taste. Expert chefs prepare both local and international dishes. The dining experience on board includes a buffet-style service, al fresco dining, and a beach BBQ for a unique culinary journey. Snacks are provided throughout the day.

A variety of special menus, including options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free preferences are available as well with advance notice.

Beverage options are abundant, with soft drinks, tea and coffee available. Guests can also enjoy complimentary wine or beer with dinner.

Highlights:

  • Exceptional food quality
  • Special menus like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free are available
  • Complimentary wine or beer with dinner

Things we like:

  • Flexible itinerary based on weather
  • Outstanding hospitality and service
  • Exploration of secret, less touristy locations
  • Spacious and well-organized dive deck
  • Abundance of marine life, including mantas

Things we don't like:

  • Limited marine life at some dive sites
  • Communication problems with instructors
  • Cash-only payments onboard
Key Facts
Year Built 2007
Max Divers 18
Price Range Luxury
Trip Length 8+ Nights
Internet Yes (free)
Nitrox Yes ($)
Equipment Rental Yes ($)
Camera Station Yes
Air Conditioning Yes
Min. Logged Dives No minimum
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments